Problems with Windows Messenger User tagged as being Offline.

Hi:

I am having aa problem with the setup for an Audio/Video (A/V) connection
with Windows Live Messenger.

We are trying to communicate wirelessly with two HP laptops
(Laptop 1 and Laptop 2).

Here are the configurations for the two users, User 1's laptop (Laptop 1)
and User 2's laptop (Laptop 2).

User 1's laptop: Laptop 1 (HP G60-533CL)
OS: Windows 7 64-bit Home Premium
Windows Live Messenger (Version 2009 Build 14.0.8089.726)
On sign-in screen: User 1 signs-in as "Available".
When started, Live Messenger comes up as follows:
Favorites (1/1) User 2
Groups (0/0)
Available: (1) User 2

User 2's laptop: Laptop 2 (HP dv6500z)
OS: Windows Vista 32-bit Home Premium
Windows Live Messenger (Version 2009 Build 14.0.8089.726)
On sign-in screen: User 2 signs-in as "Available".
When started, Live Messenger comes up as follows:
Favorites (0/1) User 1
Groups (0/0)
Offline (1) User 1

I have to start Messenger from Laptop 1, and then connect to it with Laptop 2.

How/where do I adjust settings so that Messenger for Laptop 2
starts like Messenger for Laptop 1,
with User 1 being "Available", not "Offline" ?

Thank you...

--
DaleB